Mesothelioma Litigation Lawyers Asbestos: An Invisible Killer

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that has been used as insulation and a fire retardant in a wide variety of products. Asbestos can produce dust that, when inhaled, becomes deposited in the lungs. Asbestos in the lungs can cause or contribute to the development of illnesses, especially mesothelioma (a malignant form of cancer in the lining of the chest or abdominal cavities), asbestosis (a fibrous scarring of the lungs) and lung cancer.
Federal regulation of asbestos began in the 1970s. Due to health concerns, all new uses of asbestos in the United States were banned in July 1989. That year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a final rule, entitled "Asbestos: Manufacture, Importation, Processing, and Distribution in Commerce Prohibitions," which eventually led to banning about 94 percent of the asbestos used in the US (based on 1985 estimates). Most asbestos uses established before that date are still allowed, but now are strictly regulated by the government.
If you have an asbestos-related illness like mesothelioma or an asbestos contamination problem in your home or business, talk to an experienced, skilled asbestos attorney. Contact our firm to learn more about your potential legal remedies.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is an abundant, easily-mined mineral found worldwide. Because of its fibrous, durable and heat-resistant properties, it has been used as an additive to strengthen and protect consumer goods and construction materials for the last century or so, although its use has declined drastically since the 1960s in the United States. Common products often containing asbestos include car brakes, insulation, floor and ceiling tile, linoleum, roofing material, cement piping and appliances.
Why be Concerned about Asbestos?
The problem with asbestos for humans is that it consists of microscopic, sliver-like fibers that can become dangerously embedded in the lungs when airborne, sometimes causing injury and disease - even fatal disease. Ironically, asbestos-related illness can take decades to manifest, sometimes far in time and place from the actual exposure, making causation hard to reconstruct.
Asbestos mixed with or suspended in other solid materials, in and of itself, is not usually harmful. The harm occurs when it is released into the air in its dust-like form. For example, linoleum containing asbestos is not usually dangerous if undisturbed. It becomes unhealthy when the linoleum is broken or cut, or starts to deteriorate, causing asbestos particle production that can become airborne and breathable.